Bram crouched in front of Gumdrop’s tank, his knees pressing into the worn rug that Comet usually kneaded her claws at. The soft hum of the filtration crystal buzzed faintly as he gently dangled an earthworm between his fingers. “You sure he likes these?” His voice was hesitant, almost shy in a way that made my heart melt.
The vulnerability in his tone made me smile.
Shy Bram was so adorable—and I wanted more of him.
He’d been stressing about winning both Gumdrop and Nebula over lately, and it was so cute.
“Likes them?” Reed chuckled from his spot on the bed. “Gumdroplivesfor them. Go ahead and give him it.”
Bram’s hand stilled as Gumdrop swam closer. His tiny, beady eyes locked onto the wiggling treat. Bram dropped it in, and with a swift motion, he snatched the worm from the water and ate it. His mouth curled in what could only be described as a smile as he regarded Bram.
“He smiled at me!” Bram’s excitement burst out and shot down our matebond. His face lit up as he glanced back at Reed, seeking confirmation.
Reed shook his head, laughing softly. “Looks like he’s finally warming up to you, Bram. Though, bribing isdefinitelythe reason for it.”
“Whatever works.” Bram tossed his arms up in victory.
Across the room, Nebula was perched on my nightstand. “Do not forget to take me with you,” he hissed. “You can’t leave without me.”
“Of course. I won’t forget.” I walked over and put Nebula in my bag before adjusting it on my shoulder.
Dex smirked, his fog gray eyes glinting mischievously. “Careful, Bram. Nebs is totally cock-blocking you.”
Bram’s cheeks flushed a deep crimson, and his dark red eyes shot to me. “I—she—we’re just…”
Hunter’s voice cut through as he tapped away at his tablet. “Dex, cut it out. Bram’s embarrassed.” He turned toward my bag, where Nebula was. “Let them have some alone time soon, alright? But I get wanting to tag along to the Havoc manor tonight.”
Nebula sighed theatrically. “Tonight is non-negotiable, but I agree. I can do that.”
“He’s just concerned for her safety the same way we all are,” Skel interjected from the corner where he sat with Comet nestled in his lap. The tiny calico purred contentedly as Skel stroked her fur.
My shadow snaked out of my palm, wrapping around Dex’s waist and pulling him closer as I gasped. “Fates!”
Dex let out a mock yelp but didn’t resist, grinning as he allowed himself to be dragged toward me. “I’ll get close to you whenever you want me to, trouble. You don’t have to exert so much effort.”
Demo burst out of my stomach and into the room, yapping excitedly as Chaos followed in his wake from Bram.
Their combined chaotic energy sent the room into a flurry of movement as my shadows slunk back into my mark.
“Alright, alright,” Dex said, waving his hands in surrender. “Let’s go before the chaos manifestations destroy the room. I promise to keep an eye on them.”
Bram straightened, brushing off his dress pants. He wore a black pair with a simple white button-up, and he looked stunning. “I can watch her, too,” he mumbled, his eyes flicking to me and then away just as quickly.
I smiled at him, smoothing down my silky black thin-strapped dress that hit below my knees. “You’re sweet, but Dex freaks out if he doesn’t see that I’m okay.”
“I won’t bug you,” Dex promised. “I’ll stay in the shadows. It’s not you, dude. I feel like I’ll lose my shit without seeing her.”
“Okay.” Bram nodded. “I get it.”
I went around and kissed each mate on the lips before Dex’s shadows wrapped around us, shadow-traveling us to Havoc Manor.
* * *
Slater’s manor loomed before us. It was like a smaller version of Dad’s manor, but no less intimidating.
A stone path led up to the grand staircase to their home.
Bram fidgeted beside me, his nervous energy palpable through our bond.
